If you drive (or plan to drive) in Poland, the technical inspection (Badanie techniczne pojazdu) is mandatory.
Missing it can cost you big — fines, suspension of vehicle documents, or even removal of your car from the road.
This guide explains how inspections work, what’s checked, updated prices, and penalties — so you can stay compliant and safe.
1️⃣ What Is a Technical Inspection (Badanie techniczne)?
A technical inspection (TO) is an official check that confirms your vehicle is roadworthy.
It must be done at an authorized inspection station.
After the check, a certified inspector will either:
✔ Approve the vehicle for continued use, or
❌ List necessary repairs before it can pass.
Who needs it?
All vehicle owners in Poland:
🚗 Passenger cars
🏍️ Motorcycles
🚛 Trucks (below/above 3.5 t)
🚌 Buses
🚜 Agricultural machinery
🕰️ Classic vehicles
⛽ Cars with LPG/CNG systems (gas system checked separately)
2️⃣ When Must You Have It Done?
Typical schedule for passenger cars:
New car: first inspection 3 years after registration
Second inspection: 2 years after the first
Then: every year thereafter
💡 Vehicles with LPG/CNG installations must be inspected every year, regardless of age.
3️⃣ What Do Inspectors Check?
🧾 Common inspection items:
Vehicle identity & registration
Steering & suspension
Lights, electrical systems
Shock absorbers
Brakes & fluids
Leaks & chassis condition
Tyres & tread depth
LPG/CNG system integrity
Some stations may run additional checks depending on the vehicle type.
4️⃣ Legal & Practical Updates (Since 2022)
📸 Mandatory photos: inspectors must photograph the vehicle (stored for 5 years).
💰 Higher fines: penalties and station controls have increased.
⏰ Late inspection fee: proposal to double the fee if overdue by 30+ days (EU rule — awaiting confirmation).
📞 eCall check: since Nov 2022, vehicles with built-in emergency systems are tested for functionality.
5️⃣ Foreign-Plate Vehicles — Short Guide
If your vehicle is registered abroad:
You may drive it temporarily, but must keep registration documents with you.
Staying in Poland over 6 months or obtaining Polish documents may require local registration and inspection.
Having Polish insurance without valid inspection can void your coverage in an accident.
6️⃣ Inspection Prices (Updated 01.09.2025)
| Vehicle Type | Price (PLN) |
|---|---|
| Passenger car | 149 |
| Motorcycle / moped | 93 |
| Truck ≤ 3.5 t | 149 |
| Truck > 3.5 t | 233 |
| Bus | 299 (depends on seats) |
| Agricultural tractor | 95 |
| Light trailer (≤ 750 kg) | 62 |
| Heavy trailer (> 750 kg) | 233 |
| Post-accident check | 141 |
| LPG/CNG system (extra) | 95 |
⚠️ If overdue by 30+ days, inspection cost may double.
7️⃣ Fines & Consequences
Driving without a valid inspection can result in:
💸 Fine: 1,500–5,000 PLN (often around 3,000 PLN)
🚫 Vehicle ban from driving if unsafe
📄 Temporary retention of vehicle documents
🔒 In rare cases: short-term detention for serious violations
8️⃣ How to Check Your Next Inspection Date Online
Use the free government portal Mój Pojazd to view:
✔ Expiry date of your last inspection
✔ Technical data (engine, fuel, power)
✔ Recorded defects
Always check before driving if you’re unsure of your expiry date.
9️⃣ Practical Tips to Avoid Problems
✔ Add inspection reminders (30 & 7 days before expiry)
✔ Fix visible issues (lights, tyres, brakes) before inspection
✔ Keep all vehicle documents with you
✔ Don’t drive if your inspection expired — the fine is much higher
✔ If driving a foreign-registered car, check residency and inspection rules carefully
🚘 Drive safe — and don’t let a missed inspection ruin your day! ✅
